Hyderabad: The Telangana unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday strongly welcomed the Supreme Court’s stern observations and warning of possible contempt proceedings against the Congress-led Revanth Reddy government for its reckless and unlawful attempt to bulldoze parts of the Kancha Gachibowli forest overnight.
During the hearing of a suo motu case related to deforestation in the Kancha Gachibowli region, Chief Justice of India, Justice B R Gavai, voiced serious concern over the Telangana government’s actions. “Sustainable development does not mean destroying forests in the dead of the night,” the CJI remarked, while pointing to the unacceptable haste and manner in which the forest land was cleared using bulldozers without proper procedure.
BJP Telangana Chief Spokesperson and Media In-charge N.V. Subash said the episode reflects the Revanth Reddy government’s blatant disregard for environmental laws and judicial directives. He alleged that the Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC), acting on behalf of the state government, attempted to alienate over 400 acres of ecologically sensitive land, triggering outrage from environmental activists and students of the University of Hyderabad, which is located adjacent to the forest area.
“TSIIC’s misadventure not only undermines environmental norms but also threatens the health and well-being of students and faculty residing on the Central University campus. Their protests are justified and reflect the growing public anger against this government’s misplaced priorities,” Subash said.
In recent days, multiple reports and visuals have emerged showing widespread tree felling and illegal clearing of forest cover, which led to widespread condemnation and finally attracted the apex court’s intervention.
Calling the bulldozing incident a desperate measure to fill the state’s depleted coffers, the BJP warned the Congress-led government against resorting to environmental destruction for short-term financial gain.
“We strongly oppose any attempts by the Revanth Reddy government to violate environmental laws under the pretext of development. The BJP stands with the people, students, and environmentalists in demanding full protection of Telangana’s fragile green cover. We hope the Supreme Court continues to keep a close watch and ensures accountability in this matter,” Subash said.
The BJP has called for a transparent inquiry into the decision-making process behind the attempted deforestation and demanded that all those responsible for violating the Forest Conservation Act and other environmental safeguards be held accountable.
